Welcome to ResponsibleDrinking.ca
There is no beverage of moderation, only the practice of moderation.
Many lifestyle choices carry potential risks and benefits, and the consumption of alcohol is no exception. ResponsibleDrinking.ca aims to share resources that equip Canadians to make informed choices when it comes to consuming alcohol responsibly and in moderation.
Individual considerations and Informed Choices
If you choose to consume alcohol, it is important to understand that alcohol affects each person differently. It is not recommended that anyone consume alcohol for its potential health benefits and encourage those with specific questions about their individual circumstances to consult with their health professional.
For some individuals the best decisions may be not to drink at all.
By continuing to understand how alcohol can affect one’s health, safety and wellbeing, it equips individuals to make informed choices and see how practicing responsibility in small, practical ways can contribute to a balanced lifestyle.
*This website is a resource for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.*
What is a Standard Drink?
Knowing how to calculate the number of standard drinks per container is an important practice of responsible drinking, because not all containers have the same alcohol percentage, or the same volume.
A standard drink is a measure of how much pure alcohol you are drinking. It varies based on the concentration of alcohol in a beverage. In Canada, a standard drink is 17.05 millilitres or 13.45 grams of pure alcohol. This is the equivalent of:
- A bottle of beer (12 oz., 341 ml, 5% alcohol)
- A bottle of cider (12 oz., 341 ml, 5% alcohol)
- A ready-to-drink can (12oz., 341 ml, 5% alcohol)
- A glass of wine (5 oz., 142 ml, 12% alcohol)
- A shot glass of spirits (1.5 oz., 43 ml, 40% alcohol)
Therefore, there is no beverage of moderation, only the practice of moderation.
How to use the calculator
Figuring out how many standard drinks are in your beverage is simple. Locate these two pieces of information on your beverage container:
- The size of the container (usually in ounces or mL)
- The alcohol percentage (ABV) — sometimes listed as “proof”
This calculator works for distilled spirits, wine, beer, wine, or ready-to-drink beverages.
Updated On: 08/31/2026
Explore by Topic
Understanding Alcohol
Learn the basics of what alcohol is in simple, everyday terms. Understand how alcohol is created in different types of drinks, how alcohol is processed in the body, and its potential effects.
Balance & Moderation
This section shares general ideas about how people can take a balanced and moderate approach, such as understanding general levels of low to moderate consumption in Canada, setting your own personal limits, or choosing alcohol-free/low ABV options.
Responsible Practices
Explore practical ways to prepare for social situations where alcohol may be involved. Explore practical ways to prepare for social situations where alcohol may be involved. Examples include planning transport, eating before drinking, staying aware of surroundings, and looking out for friends.
Alcohol & Health
Gain an understanding on the general concept of how alcohol is often talked about in relation to sleep, mood, energy, and overall wellbeing. It focuses on general concepts rather than detailed health advice.
Social & Cultural
Highlighting common settings and social experiences where alcohol may be involved, and navigating them comfortably, whether someone chooses to drink or not.